In the account of Peter having faith to step out of the boat in Matthew 14:22-23; Peter made the statement, “Lord, if it’s really you….” after Jesus had already stated that it was him who was approaching them. Jesus grants Peter the privilege to come out and walk on the water with him; however, I find it very difficult to affirm that Peter still believed.
The mental factor of speaking “Lord, if it’s really you…” had never left the spiritual realm of Peter’s inward center when he stepped out on the water walking toward Jesus. Peter’s failure was not based on faith alone, but also of focus. Peter stepped out on the water by faith, but his faith stopped at that moment.
The galvanization of faith within the Christian walk is one of continual motion and momentum. Electricity within our homes is always moving even when we do not have the lights on, the T.V. on, and the washer and dryer going and the same analogy applies with regard to our faith in God. All the switches may not be on and may not have to be turned on depending upon the situation, but we must always believe that the power of God exists and that we can turn on our switch of faith and know that God is still there.
The reality of serving a perfect God means that the imperfections of our spirit will be revealed to us by a perfect God who serves. From time to time we may say openly or subliminally “Lord, if it’s really you…” during our course in life and in ministry, but it is a perfect God that will allow us to sink a little in order that we cry out “Lord, save me” and realize that it was the Lord who was there from the beginning.
~ Pastor E. Shon Hagwood
